Backstage magic used to get ‘Wicked’ up and running

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HARTFORD--A Broadway spectacular has returned for it's fourth run in the capital, and, even before the first curtain rises, the first act is already underway.

Tuesday was load-in day for "Wicked," and the choreography behind assembling all the sets, props and costumes takes around 100 crew members. The production travels in 13 trailers to make the on-stage magic a reality said Ryan Lympus, the company manager of the Wicked tour. "It's a three day process, 24 hours of actual labor to make it happen, its just truck after truck," Lympus said.

Playing a lead role just behind the main stage was Tony Gallicchio, a stage carpenter from Local 84. Gallicchio was making sure all the scenes were set and helping to guide large props into their proper place. "I have the loudest voice," Gallicchio joked. "We make sure we get everything in, we make sure it's safe."

Lympus noted that the lighting, sets design and extensive choreography will replicate what audiences have come to expect from the Broadway production of Wicked. "No expense was spared to put this show up," he said. "It's like you're going to see the show at the Gershwin Theatre on 51st Street in Manhattan."